Aldi seeks support staff for new stores

Updated 2:36 pm, Thursday, March 14, 2013

At Aldi, there are still another 100 full-time positions to fill. Applicants visited the Humble store at 6900 FM 1960 east during a recent hiring event.

At Aldi, there are still another 100 full-time positions to fill. Applicants visited the Humble store at 6900 FM 1960 east during a recent hiring event.

Aldi seeks support staff for new stores

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There's a new player in Houston, one that's seeking a helping hand or two - or, more accurately, a hundred or so. Aldi, a grocery retailer that features more than 1,400 of the most-frequently purchased items sold under the Aldi brand for up to 50 percent less than traditional supermarkets, will open its first nine stores in the Houston area April 11.

Karla Waddleton, director of operations, said Aldi already has hired 50 managers and manager trainees, but now is in need of support staff. More than 100 people have received offers for positions as cashiers and shift managers, but there are still another 100 full-time positions to fill.

"We're very fortunate to have hired this many people already, but we are always looking for solid candidates as we move along," Waddleton said. "We want to be prepared for our continuing expansion."

Aldi will open a total of 30 stores in the Houston area during the next few years, investing more than $125 million of capital and creating approximately 400 jobs.

Waddleton said the company offers wages significantly higher than industry standard. Aldi cashiers and shift managers start at $11.50 an hour and are eligible for full benefits, including medical, dental, vision, paid holidays, vacation and a 401(k).

"That's why we're able to get such excellent people working in our stores," Waddleton said.

Aldi provides all training, is supportive of staff seeking to transfer within the U.S. system's 1,200 stores - across 32 states - and encourages internal promotions.

"It's not uncommon for cashiers to grow with us," Waddleton said. "We pride ourselves on that."

Karina Mazon recently was hired as a cashier and hopes to work her way toward shift manager, management trainee and possibly, one day, run her own store.

"I would like a leadership role and contribute to the success of the company," Mazon said. "It's a great, professional work environment where they treat the employees well."

Candidates must be 18 or older and available for work between the hours of 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. Previous retail experience is recommended, but not required.